Jason Pruet Scientist Bridging Physics and Intelligence.pdf

Jason Pruet is a physicist and technology leader with more than two decades of experience across science, national security, and public service. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of California, San Diego, where he studied under George Fuller, a Nobel laureate and Willy Fowler's student. His doctoral research explored astrophysics and nucleosynthesis, focusing on the weak processes driving gamma-ray bursts. This early scientific training shaped his analytical approach and commitment to applying research for practical and societal impact.

1. Jason Pruet: Scientist Bridging
Physics and Intelligence


Jason Pruet is a physicist and technology leader with more than two decades of
experience across science, national security, and public service. He earned his Ph.D. in
Physics from the University of California, San Diego, where he studied under George
Fuller, a Nobel laureate and Willy Fowler's student. His doctoral research explored
astrophysics and nucleosynthesis, focusing on the weak processes driving gamma-ray
bursts. This early scientific training shaped his analytical approach and commitment to
applying research for practical and societal impact.

Early Research Career

After graduating, Jason joined Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) as a
postdoctoral researcher through a SciDAC Supernova grant. He later advanced to lead
the computational nuclear physics group, overseeing stockpile stewardship, atomic
detection technologies, and forensic attribution research. His work at LLNL contributed
to maintaining the safety and reliability of the national stockpile while strengthening
the country’s scientific foundation for nuclear security.

2. Service in Washington, D.C.

2011 Jason transitioned to public service with the Department of Energy’s National
Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). He directed programs such as the Primary
Assessment Campaign and the Physics and Engineering Models Campaign, ensuring
the technical credibility of nuclear stockpile assessments. He also helped launch the
Capabilities for Nuclear Intelligence program, bringing scientific expertise and
intelligence analysis together. Later, as Chief of an intelligence branch within the DOE
Office of Intelligence and Counterintelligence, he led assessments of foreign nuclear
weapons programs. His contributions earned recognition from the Secretary of Energy
and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

Leadership at Los Alamos

After nearly a decade in federal service, Jason moved to Los Alamos National
Laboratory (LANL). There, he directed the Advanced Simulation and Computing (ASC)
program, which supports the reliability of the U.S. nuclear deterrent without
underground testing. Collaborating with leaders across national laboratories, including
Brian Spears, Kevin Dixon, and Rick Stevens, he co-led initiatives to advance artificial
intelligence for Science, Energy, and Security. At LANL, he became the National
Security AI Office's founding director, building strategies to integrate AI into national
missions responsibly.

Role at OpenAI

In 2025, Jason Pruet from OpenAI joined the Mission Alignment team as a member of
the technical staff. His work supports the organization’s mission to ensure that artificial
intelligence benefits humanity. He contributes to scientific, philanthropic, and
security-focused projects, partnering with researchers, policymakers, and nonprofits to
align AI technology with public and ethical priorities.

Ongoing Vision

Throughout his career, Jason has co-authored peer-reviewed studies and technical
reports on nucleosynthesis in gamma-ray burst accretion disks to high-performance
computing and nuclear detection. His professional path reflects a consistent
goal—using science and technology responsibly to strengthen security, support
innovation, and improve the human condition.